Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin in a joint statement have announced the ceiling prices for COVID-19 self-test kits to accommodate affordability for both businesses as well as the public.
They said the demand for the rapid antigen test kits (self-testing) is expected to increase as more members of the public will conduct self-testing to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
“KPDNHEP has engaged with all local industry players and importers in determining a reasonable control price for all parties. KPDNHEP also expects the effects of competition to further stabilise the selling price at all levels as is the case with the current face mask price,” they said.
Here are the 5 things you should know:
- Wholesale and retail price
The government has set the maximum ceiling prices for the COVID-19 self-test kits, with the wholesale price fixed at RM16 a unit and a retail price of RM19.90 a unit, which will take effect from 5th Sept 2021.
- The pricing is protected under the law
According to the statement, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs will set the maximum wholesale and retail prices for the test kits under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and the Control of Supply Act 1961.
- Offence committed involving the breach of the law may result in jail time
The ministers also stated that traders who do not follow all of the rules will face grave implications.
Any trader who violates the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 may be prosecuted and may face penalties if they sell self-test kits for more than the maximum price set.
Individuals can be fined up to RM100,000 or imprisoned up to three years, or both, and their fines can be compounded up to RM50,000.
Companies, on the other hand, face fines of up to RM500,000 or a compounding penalty of up to RM250,000.
- Free kits are possible?
Khairy, commenting on the announcement on Twitter also said the government is looking into bulk purchase options to lower the cost and to provide free units for B40 families.
- Consumers may report offences to KPDNHEP
Consumers can file complaints via the e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my portal, or phone the call centre at 1800 886 800, email via e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my or use smartphone application such as Ez ADU, or contact the Enforcement Command Centre (ECC) at 03-8882 6245/6088, or WhatsApp at 019-279 4317 if traders do not comply with all of the regulations.
